Obituary of Robert Thomas Whittaker

We are saddened to announce that Bob passed away on Monday, November 8, 2021 at St. Boniface Hospital, three weeks before his 81st birthday. He will be lovingly remembered by Dorothy, his wife of 56 years; his children Tanis Deal (Isaac) and Gavin (Rebecca); grandchildren Luna, Elijah, Zeeliah and Flynn; his brother Brian (Judy) and sister Emily Kraus; Dorothy’s brothers, sisters and their spouses; and many nieces, nephews and friends. Bob retired in 2005 after working as a custodian at St. Joseph the Worker School and Church in Transcona and for a number of years with the Winnipeg School Division. He enjoyed many years of golfing, curling, bowling, playing hockey (goalie) as well as camping. He loved the Bombers and was a season ticket holder for a number of years. Having enjoyed his boy scout experience in his youth, he became a Cub/Scout/Venturer leader and a training coordinator after his son came of age to join. Bob always had a love of music, playing electric guitar in his early years, and more recently the mandolin. This led him to the Manitoba and Old Tyme Bluegrass Society where he became a member and served on the Board of Directors in a number of capacities. Many trips were taken over the years, mostly to Tanis’s home in North Carolina near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Camping trips to attend bluegrass festivals in the Northern USA, Alberta, North Carolina as well as Manitoba leaves us with many happy memories. The family are deeply grateful for the excellent care given by Dr. Colin Botkin and the numerous doctors, nurses and aides at St. Boniface Hospital. As Bob had requested, cremation has taken place. A family gathering will be held to celebrate his life at a later date If friends so desire, donations in Bob’s memory can be made to the Christmas Cheer Board.